New Delhi, Dec 5 (NationPress) Russian President Vladimir Putin is set to receive a ceremonial welcome at Rashtrapati Bhavan on Friday, followed by important discussions with Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Putin began his State Visit to India on Thursday evening, marked by a significant personal gesture from PM Modi, who greeted him at the airport and traveled with him in the same vehicle.

This visit is filled with high-level meetings across the capital, highlighting the ongoing strategic importance of India-Russia relations in the context of evolving global geopolitics.

Friday’s agenda kicks off at 11:00 a.m. with a ceremonial reception at Rashtrapati Bhavan, followed by a wreath-laying ceremony at Rajghat at 11:30 a.m. The two leaders will convene for official talks at Hyderabad House at 11:50 a.m., where discussions will likely address defense, energy collaboration, regional security, and long-term economic partnerships.

After their discussions, press statements are set for 1:50 p.m. at Hyderabad House, followed by a briefing from the Ministry of External Affairs at Jawaharlal Nehru Bhawan at 3:00 p.m. Later, Putin will engage in a business event at 3:40 p.m. to foster commercial and investment ties.

In the evening, the Russian President will meet with President Droupadi Murmu at Rashtrapati Bhavan at 7:00 p.m., before his departure from the Air Force Station at 9:00 p.m.

Upon Putin's arrival, PM Modi welcomed him with a warm embrace, indicating a strong rapport, before they enjoyed a brief cultural performance as part of the ceremonial welcome.

New Delhi made extensive preparations for the visit, with banners and lights along major roads, including Lok Kalyan Marg, showcasing India-Russia flags. These preparations set a vibrant tone for an agenda rich in both symbolism and substance.

Following the welcome ceremony, the two leaders proceeded to the Prime Minister's residence, where Modi hosted a private dinner for Putin.

The interaction, described by officials as both relaxed and cordial, reflects the ongoing personal connection between the two leaders. PM Modi shared photos from the welcome on X, stating: “Delighted to welcome my friend, President Putin to India… the India-Russia friendship is a time-tested bond that has significantly benefited our peoples.”

This visit comes on the heels of PM Modi's trip to Moscow in July 2024, where he was hosted by Putin at his Novo-Ogaryovo residence. The series of high-level meetings emphasizes the sustained momentum in bilateral relations, with both nations presenting their partnership as stable, enduring, and strategically vital.